What is the secret behind a great school garden?

School gardens can come to life in different shapes and sizes. Building and maintaining one is not a complicated science, but it requires constant team effort and effective communication.

Many EcoMarines Schools have their own gardens, growing fruits and vegetables that are used to feed the students. They can range from a collection of container gardens, a grouping of raised beds, to a small-sized plot of ploughed land.

Several factors contribute to the success of a school garden, such as the amount of sunlight available. Most vegetables, herbs, and flowers need a minimum of six hours of full sun, so when planning where to set up your garden, make sure to pick a sunny spot without buildings or trees that might block light.

Don’t forget to ensure the Ambassadors and Support Crew have easy and close access to water, guaranteeing that the items planted won’t be dry and end up lifeless. Additionally, to keep the weeds down and the soil moist, consider using mulch.

Selecting easy-to-grow plants, like lettuce, cherry tomatoes, beans, basil, spinach, and eggplants, are a great way to start. They grow quickly and don’t need too much tending.

Additionally, to raise awareness, remember that a garden near the classroom enhances convenience, visibility, and regular curriculum integration.

Getting Set Up

EcoMarines’ Narangba Valley State School accommodates a big and vivid garden named Chappy in which strawberries, tomatoes and carrots are grown and shared in the classrooms and the school cafeteria.

The school’s science teacher Nicola Summers, who leads the EcoMarines Ambassadors at the school, says that it is important to get students, staff, and families involved early on. Defining rosters and roles for planting, watering, and weeding makes sure that nothing gets missed.

With the help of the EcoMarines Ambassadors, schools can form garden clubs or committees to make decisions about how it will look, what will be planted, how it will operate and what materials they need.

In Narangba, for example, the Ambassadors weren’t afraid of asking for donations and reached out to local businesses and the community for seeds, soil, mulch, and tools. Places like Bunnings or local nurseries are often happy to support with advice or materials. Local councils often have planting programs and can help with both advice and materials.

The students have even learned how to save seeds. “We collect seeds from flowers like zinnias, cosmos, nasturtiums, and sunflowers to plant again. It’s a fun way for students to learn about the seed cycle and be self-sufficient. We also hand these out to students throughout the year to spread the love,” says Mrs Summers.

Making it Happen

The two other things that help make the perfect garden are setting up composting bins and worm farms. Those are great for reducing waste and improving soil health. They help teach children about the decomposition process and how to recycle our organic waste.

To raise morale and participation, Mrs Summers says to remember to share and celebrate every harvest. “Whether it’s tastings, garden days, or cooking with what we grow, celebrating the results helps keep everyone engaged and excited.”

In Narangba, the plants collected are sold at Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls as a way to raise funds and share the garden with families. The Ambassadors love potting up seedlings and decorating labels.

“Encourage creativity and curiosity. Let students explore, experiment, and even make mistakes. It’s all part of the learning journey. Some things won’t grow the way you expect, and that’s totally fine! Each season brings new learning and new opportunities,” Mrs Summers says.

Don’t Forget

During the school holidays, have a simple plan for who’ll care for the garden during school breaks. Staff, families, or even a local community group can help.